Illinois State Contributes to Graduate Assistants' Health Insurance

For the first time, Illinois State University will join other research universities in contributing to graduate assistants' health insurance. 

A 2008 survey conducted by the "Chronicle of Higher Education" indicated that 84 percent of research universities cover all or part of graduate assistants' health insurance.  Beginning this fall, graduate students who are appointed to 50 percent or more assistantships during fall or spring semester and purchase their health insurance through the University's student health plan will receive reimbursement for the insurance charge. 

"Support for graduate assistants is an important factor in recruitment," said Kimberly Nance, director of Graduate Studies. "In fall of 2008, 563 master's and doctoral students held 50 percent or more assistantships at Illinois State, nearly all as teaching or research assistants.  Illinois State's decision to make the insurance contribution, especially in a challenging economic climate, underscores the University's commitment to graduate education."

"Illinois State University graduate assistants are an essential part of our academic community," said Provost Sheri Noren Everts.

Appointing units advertise their graduate assistant positions on the University's Human Resources Web site, www.IllinoisState.edu/home/jobs, and eligible graduate students may apply on-line.

For more information, contact Nance at (309) 438-2583 or kanance@ilstu.edu.